Know what you need
It’s always a good idea to shortlist properties before scheduling viewings. An easy way to do that is to think about the following:
- Which area would you like to live in? The postcodes in and around Exeter don’t really help you narrow down the search. Research each local area in Exeter; Heavitree, Pennsylvania, Newcourt & Digby for example.
- What can you afford? Make sure to check which bills are included in the rent, if any. How much will the deposit be, and when will the payments be required?
- How long do you want the tenancy for? The landlord may have a minimum requirement or it could be a short-term let only.
- Internal space? Are there enough rooms for everything you need? Check the floorplans on adverts
- Furnished vs. Unfurnished? If a property comes furnished, it’s unlikely the landlord would be able to store the furniture so make sure you’re happy to take it with the furniture included. Check which white goods are included in the kitchen, too.
- Outside space? Do you need parking, either on-street or private? Are all properties able to apply for resident permits? Is the garden shared or private?
- Are pets and children permitted? Some landlords will have stipulations from their lenders which may prohibit them renting to specific groups, it’s always best to check.
Once you’ve narrowed down your search and you’re ready to view properties please contact us. You can find out more about the process from viewing to moving in for our residential and student properties below.
Residential Lettings
1. Viewing
Prior to viewing we’ll ask you to complete a short viewing form which we’ll discuss with the landlords before offering viewing times. This helps make sure that the landlord is happy with your details before we view.
If you’re viewing a number of properties, it’s always a good idea to make a checklist and use it for each property. With different terms for each property and tenancy, it’s easy to forget what’s what at the end of a busy day of viewings.
2. Application
After viewing a property simply email us to request an application form. We’ll provide details for paying a holding deposit - equivalent of one week’s rent - for the property. Once received, we’ll contact your current employer and landlord for a reference. We also carry out a basic credit check using Rent4Sure. If you’re self-employed we will ask to see proof of earnings instead of an employer’s reference. In certain circumstances the landlord may request a guarantor for the tenancy in, which case we would carry out a credit check on your guarantor.
Right to Rent checks – We’re required to check a tenant’s Right to Rent. Further information on what this means can be found here.
We'll ask to see your original passport and any necessary Biometric Residence Permit (BRP). If we have not carried out a credit check, we’ll ask to see one other form of identification confirming your current address such as a driving licence or recent utility bill excluding mobile phone.
Tenancy documents – All tenancy documents will be sent via email unless you request otherwise and we’ll ask you to sign them digitally - we use HelloSign as a digital signing platform. Once you receive the tenancy documents you will need to make the final deposit payment, further information on this can be found here.
3. Moving In
We’ll meet you at the property with the keys and inventory and run through the basics with you. We’ll provide you with contact details for the duration of your tenancy.
Student Lettings
1. Viewing
We’ll release our properties each year early November, please contact us to be on the waiting list. Once you’ve got your group confirmed and have a shortlist of properties please contact us to book viewings.
2. Application
After viewing a property simply email us to request an application form. The application form needs to be submitted by email, alongside payment of the holding deposit which is one week’s rent per person. Three further documents are required within 10 days of submitting the application form:
- Signed guarantor form (we’ll email this to you with the application form).
- ‘Council Tax’ letter from SID confirming your student status (downloadable from iExeter).
- Photo or scan of passport and any relevant BRP (out-of-date UK passports are acceptable).
3. Moving In
Keys can be collected from 1st September onwards. We ask the first person back to collect all of the keys for the house and to make arrangements with the other tenants directly. We’ll email details for key collection during the summer break.